Toyota South Africa has launched the eagerly awaited GR Sport III, making a bold entry into the local market with its distinctive design, upgraded suspension, and rugged BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres. This new addition to the Hilux lineup blends performance and durability perfectly. After an extensive test drive, Siya Mbaduli gives his impressions.
The Toyota Hilux is a legend in South Africa, known for its rugged reliability and versatility. Over the years, it has transformed from a simple workhorse to a sophisticated, durable vehicle that appeals to both city drivers and off-road enthusiasts. The latest models combine advanced technology, enhanced safety features, and robust performance, attracting a wide audience.
The GR Sport variants have added a sportier edge to the Hilux, with better handling and bold looks. Toyota has managed to keep the Hilux’s core strengths while adding modern touches, ensuring it remains a top pick in the competitive bakkie market. The new GR-Sport III continues this trend, at a sweet price of R999 000
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Inspired by Toyota’s Dakar Rally-winning GR Hilux, the GR-Sport III stands out with its aggressive exterior design. This model includes bold design elements and a tough stance, directly inspired by its rally heritage. The styling enhances both its look and its performance.
The GR Sport III is a heavy-duty, off-road-focused Hilux with many new features inside and out. The exterior has a new bumper, G-mesh front grille, new fog lamp bezels, red brake calipers, and aero ducts in larger wheel arches. It also has a front bash plate and gloss black 17-inch alloys with 265/65 Goodrich all-terrain tires. The approach angle improves from 29 to 30 degrees, ride height is 20 mm higher, and it’s 8 cm wider, enhancing off-road performance.
Inside, the GR Sport III has suede and leather sports seats with GR logos, a leather steering wheel with a GR logo and paddle shifters, aluminium sports pedals, and red seatbelts. The cabin also features gloss carbon fibre trim on the dash and doors, a JBL sound system, an instrument panel with a GR logo on startup, and all-weather floor mats with GR logos. The GR Sport also has 46 mm KYB monotube shock absorbers for better handling and stability on rough terrain.
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Driving the Toyota Hilux GR-Sport III from Humansdorp to Cape Town was a standout experience. It’s powered by a 2.8-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering 165 kW and 550 N.m of torque. With power going to all four wheels, this Hilux ensures a dynamic and responsive drive.
On the open road, the GR-Sport III feels balanced and stable with its firmer suspension. The recalibrated six-speed automatic transmission makes the most of the engine’s power, providing quick shifts and a more engaging drive, whether in automatic mode or using paddle shifters. The overdrive in fifth and sixth gears helps with fuel-efficient cruising.
Throughout the drive, the Hilux GR-Sport III stayed comfortable and stable. The spacious interior and supportive seats made the long journey enjoyable. The ample torque made overtaking easy, adding to driving confidence. The part-time, dual-range 4×4 system with a switchable rear diff-lock enhances versatility, ready for any terrain. Overall, the GR-Sport III impressed with its mix of performance, comfort, and stability, making it great for long drives and off-road adventures.
Priced at R999 000, the Toyota Hilux GR-Sport III faces tough competition. The Ford Ranger Wildtrak X, priced at R1 013 000, and the Tremor at R977 500, both with 2.0-litre biTurbo engines, offer 154 kW and 500 N.m. While the Hilux has more power, Ford’s models offer more advanced interiors.
For a more rugged option, the Isuzu D-Max AT35 with a 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine delivers 140 kW and 450 N.m.
Compared to its rivals, the Hilux GR-Sport III offers a compelling mix of power and refinement. Though it may lack some of the advanced interior features found in Ford models, its robust performance and comfortable ride make it a strong contender. Ultimately, the choice between these bakkies will come down to personal preferences and priorities.
Toyota Hilux GR-S II at a glance
- Price: R999 000
- Engine: 2.8-litre GD6, 4-cylinder turbodiesel
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Power: 165 kW @ 3000 r/min
- Torque: 550 N.m @ 1600 – 2800 r/min
- Rivals: Ford Ranger Tremor, Isuzu D-MAX AT35, Ford Ranger Wildtrak X
